Why I Keep Coming Back: A Love Letter to Martha’s Vineyard Summers
Share
A Summer Tradition That Never Fades
Every year, as the days grow longer and the scent of saltwater mixes with honeysuckle on the breeze, my mind drifts to one place: Martha’s Vineyard. It's not just a summer destination—it's a feeling, a ritual, a rhythm. There's something about this island off the coast of Massachusetts that has a gravitational pull, drawing me back like clockwork.
Whether it’s your first time planning a trip or your tenth visit, this blog post is a heartfelt look at why summers on Martha’s Vineyard are simply unforgettable—and why so many of us return year after year.
The Beaches: More Than Just Sand and Sea
From the moment my feet hit the sand at South Beach or Lambert’s Cove, a familiar sense of peace washes over me. The beaches here are not just places to tan—they’re a state of mind.
Each beach offers a different flavor:
Menemsha Beach: Ideal for packing a picnic and watching the sunset as boats bob in the harbor.
State Beach: Calm, family-friendly, and perfect for paddleboarding or long, lazy floats.
Aquinnah Cliffs Beach: A dramatic meeting of ocean and towering cliffs that never fails to inspire awe.
The Island Pace: Where Time Slows Down
Life on Martha’s Vineyard isn’t rushed. The island encourages you to slow down, take the scenic route, and soak in the moment. You start your mornings with a bike ride along the Edgartown loop, stop for Morning Glory Farm muffins, and maybe end your day catching a movie at the Capawock Theatre. It’s a place where digital detox is real—and welcome.
The Community & Culture: Small-Town Charm Meets Creative Soul
There’s a palpable sense of community here, especially in summer. Locals and vacationers alike come together at:
The Vineyard Artisans Festival
West Tisbury Farmer’s Market
Oak Bluffs Illumination Night
You’ll stumble upon porch concerts, gallery openings, book signings, and beach yoga classes—each one a reminder that Martha’s Vineyard is as rich in culture as it is in coastal beauty.
The Food: Local, Seasonal, and Unforgettable
One bite of a lobster roll from Larsen’s Fish Market, and I remember why I fell in love with island summers in the first place. Add in a glass of chilled rosé at a waterside patio, fresh oysters at The Net Result, and homemade ice cream from Mad Martha’s, and you've got a food lover’s paradise.
The Magic Moments That Can’t Be Planned
The best part about returning every summer? The serendipity.
It might be:
A foggy morning ferry ride that feels like a dream.
A spontaneous swim under the stars at State Beach.
Spotting a shooting star from the porch of a rented cottage.
These are the kinds of memories that only Martha’s Vineyard can create.
Why I’ll Keep Coming Back
Martha’s Vineyard in the summer is my reset button. It's where I go to remember who I am when the noise of everyday life quiets. Every year, I rediscover something new—a tucked-away beach, a new friend, or a new version of myself.
And I know I’m not alone.
There’s a reason so many people return to this island, generation after generation.
Because once you fall in love with Martha’s Vineyard, it never really lets you go.